Rat Terrier Life Span

The Rat Terrier Life Span - How Long Do You Want Him To Live?

When you bring your new Rat Terrier puppy home, you think he'll stay that small and cute forever. Although he grows and changes, he remains that gorgeous little puppy in your eyes and heart. We tend to spoil that puppy and unwittingly shorten the Rat Terrier Life Span. This lens is dedicated to extending the Rat Terrier Life Span instead.

We Lost Sonny On September 6, 2013

I just had the excruciatingly painful experience of putting my sweet, wonderful dog, Sonny, to sleep. He was only 3 months shy of being 9 years old.

When I lost my cat, Sasha, it was horrible but he was 15 and had been losing weight. When he stopped eating and drinking it was just a matter of time - 7 days from Christmas as it turned out. I held him in my arms all of New Year's Eve and he passed at 9 am on New Year's Day 2007.

With Sonny, though, there was absolutely no warning. We dropped him off happy and (we believed) healthy. We had planned to return home on Tuesday September 3 but decided to stay an extra day in visiting our family. We called the kennel to say we'd pick him up on Thursday and they gave no indication that he wasn't doing well. We talked about how much we missed him (and our cats) all the way home and how worried I was about Boris (our cat) because he's 17 years old and is getting a little frail. When we got home we were surprised to find that Boris had used the spare room as his litter box and we spent a very long time cleaning the room up before we brought Sonny home. I had washed all of Sonny's belongings (blanket, toys, harness, etc.) before we left (wish I hadn't because I washed all trace of him from our home) so I simply had to get the cat stuff out of the way and cook an egg white as a welcome home treat. That's when my husband called to say that Sonny had been found unconscious that morning and that we had to transfer him to the emergency animal hospital.

About 30 hours later, we were saying goodbye to him forever as the vets gave us no hope at all that he would ever recover. They brought him in to a private room on a quilt with a blanket. We covered him with his own blanket, put his favorite toys around him, placed a bacon treat by his nose and played some soothing music (he really loved music; it always calmed him down). We were with him for about 45 minutes until he was gone and then we went home to grieve.

Here at home, everything reminds us of him and we have to keep tissues on us at all times. The very next day, some of Sonny's best friends, Ziggy, Fanny, Sandy, Dixie, Penny & Leonard had an impromptu doggie wake while their owners (my great neighbors) gave us their condolences. This happened just outside our door and it meant the world to me especially since Fanny's owner had had to put her Rufus to sleep just 3 weeks ago too. The wonderful woman even made a donation to Young Williams Animal Shelter in Sonny's name.

Sonny had developed Diabetes and was getting 18 units of insulin every day. He was eating low-carb dog food mixed with lettuce, a bit of apple and some chicken broth and getting his walks each day. Although we worked hard to keep his weight down, it seems he had some neurological problems of which we were unaware. Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, things happen that are out of your control. I'm just happy to know that we took good care of him and that he knew just how much we loved him till the very end.

Please take good care of your pets! In some small way, I hope this lens will help you do just that.

Maria Hausle

The Rat Terrier Life Span - How To Extend It

In order to extend your Rat Terrier's life span, you have to understand and get to know your dog first. What is his personality like? What health problems are connected with this breed? Will he fit in with your lifestyle? Here, you'll find the answers to those questions and more.

My Reason for Extending The Rat Terrier Life Span

The Sonny Saga

My Rat Terrier Sonny by Maria Hausle

As I look down and watch my dog Sonny, the Rat Terrier, pretending to be asleep at my feet, with one paw on my right foot lest I should wander off without him, my heart fills with love and gratitude.

I've never truly understood people who don't enjoy the company of animals. Yes, cleaning their poop and living with a slightly torn up sofa are not favorites of mine either, but looking into the eyes of a beloved pet and seeing pure, unconditional devotion and trust makes all of that so worthwhile.

My Rat Terrier Sonny became a member of the family in February 2005. He was eight weeks old at the time and I could hold him in one hand. His floppy little ears and white sock-like markings warmed my heart but the furrowed brow and pleading brown eyes simply did me in. I wasn't particularly fond of the name (the breeder had named him Sonny) having leaned toward more exotic Russian names for my two cats, Sasha and Boris. I ruminated over Ivan the Terrier which gave me a giggle or Misha which I'd always loved or even Illya like "The Man From Uncle". My bubble was burst by my husband who absolutely loved the name Sonny, not because he's half Irish (Sonny Boy and all that), but because of James Caan's character in "The Godfather". There was no dissuading him but then, after all, I had named my cats. I've gotten over my aversion to the name, but I still entertain the fear that if we ever get a female Rat Terrier, we'll have to name her Cher.

Sonny and I go for a walk every day. Well, actually, it's more like a drag; he drags me out the door and down the street and five minutes later, after his morning ablutions (to put it elegantly), I'm dragging him down the street because he wants to go home. Although born in East Tennessee, he can't stand the heat and humidity that constitute our spring, summer and fall seasons. I'm positive he would like nothing more than to be "The Dog in the Air-Conditioned Bubble". I carry water for him and stop every few minutes so he can take a few laps and look at me with disdain. He stops at every semblance of shade and looks at me as if I'm mad. With constant coaxing, cajoling and offering bits of dog treats (he's on a diet so one treat becomes 4-6) I finally get him to stay outside for about 45 minutes; not great considering we only go about four blocks! However, we both need the attempt at exercise no matter how feeble it may be.

It's time to go to bed now and Sonny is now nuzzling my ankle because he knows it's bed biscuit time. Sometimes I'd swear he'd go to his crate at noon if he thought he'd get his bed biscuit. We started giving him a little biscuit in order to train him to go to bed. It was the only time of day he'd get that biscuit and boy would he scamper upstairs when the word "bed" was mentioned. Now, he gets only half a biscuit but he still loves bedtime. As I look down at his "worried" little face with the furrowed brows and the pleading brown eyes I still see that puppy that burrowed into my heart two and half years ago and I fall in love with him all over again.

Book Spotlight And My Personal Review - A Must Have For Rat Terrier Owners Or Fans

The title says it all. If you want information on the history of the Rat Terrier breed as well as information on health care, training, temperament and behavior, this is the book you'll want to read. The author, Alice Kane, does a wonderful job teaching us about these feisty, fearless, devoted and thoroughly lovable dogs. I highly reccommend this book for anyone who owns a Rattie, knows someone who owns one, is thinking of owning one or is simply enamored by this very special breed.

Keeping Rat Terriers Trim

Is he getting too little or too much exercise? Part 1

Dog Weight Problems - Is Your Dog Exercising Enough?By Maria Hausle

Everyone knows that a dog, like a human, needs exercise to avoid weight problems but how much exercise is enough? We really must take into consideration the dog's breed and size as well as the dog's age and possible limitations. So, let's go over a few important points in order to set up a proper exercise regimen for our best friend.

We need to take a look at the dog's breed first. Over time, dogs have been bred for many different purposes; to work, to hunt, to race, for show, etc. If a dog's natural instincts tell it to chase after anything that moves he will probably be more active than one that has been bred to sit on one's lap looking beautiful. If it's in a dog's nature to pull or carry loads for its master, how happy and how fit will the dog be if he's lying on a sofa all day? Working and hunting dogs need to feel worthwhile and like to be kept busy by their owners. If you own one of these breeds, you must put extra effort into maintaining a high level of activity for them or they will develop behavioral and/or dog weight problems.

Now, let's take a look at your dog's size. Large dogs are incapable of getting the exercise they need by running around the house unless they have access to a large yard where they can run and play. Just because they lie on the floor doesn't mean they're tired and would rather not go for a brisk walk. However, even if you have a large yard, your dog will still need walks and play time because, to him, the yard simply becomes a larger room and he'll eventually get bored. Small dogs, on the other hand, can keep themselves quite active indoors. If your dog interacts with other pets in the house, runs, jumps and has rigorous sessions with his toys, he may be getting sufficient exercise along with his daily walks to keep him healthy and happy.

If you have a young dog or puppy in your home, you shouldn't have much trouble getting him out of the house and walking. However, if your dog is getting on in years, you should gently encourage him to go for daily walks which will help to keep him agile. Don't force him into strenuous exercise that could harm him, however. A walk doesn't have to turn into a marathon or an uphill hike in the mid-summer sun.

Part 2 is continued below...

Learn About Rat Terriers

These items will really come in handy when searching for that perfect gift.

The Sonny Saga Continues

My Rat Terrier Sonny and Our Visit to the Vet

by Maria Hausle

In preparation for the odyssey that we'll be enduring at the end of this month, Sonny and I decided to visit the vet (or as my addled, middle-aged mind referred to her, the ventriloquist - don't ask). You see, almost every year, we drive up to Buffalo and Toronto from Knoxville, TN, two whole times; first in the spring/summer and then in November. Not only do we get a chance to see our friends and family but we also get away from our rut even if it's only for a week. Usually, while we're away, our neighbor checks in on Boris (the cat) at least once a day to make sure he has everything he needs, clean his litter (what an angel she is) and play with him a while. Sonny, on the other hand has had to be boarded - something Rat Terriers abhor! He's always lost a little too much weight and had mild behavior problems for a while afterwards so we really didn't like doing it but what could we do? This year, however, my husband decided that we should take him with us... to Buffalo... in the car... with us... in the car... for eleven or twelve hours... in the car! Not a problem, you say. However, Sonny gets carsick (like Mummy, like Puppy) and, therefore is really quite afraid of the car. Ergo, our trip to the vet for some fantastic knock-out pills (my hope).

I had decided to change veterinarians as our other one had already claimed our arm, leg and first born for the very few times we'd actually gone to see her. After talking to the neighbors and discovering that I was the only one stupid enough to still go there, I took their cue and made an appointment at the new place. I got an appointment right away for 3:30 pm but I was supposed to be there at 3:00 pm to fill out the obligatory paperwork. Excellent.

Part 2 is continued below...

Bet You Haven't Seen These!

Keeping Rat Terriers Trim

Is he getting too little or too much exercise? Part 2

Just as in humans, age slows down a dog's metabolism. Therefore you should continue his daily exercise which will help to control any weight gain (see Dog Weight Problems for good information on this topic) which, in turn, may help to reduce the severity of joint disease.

Obviously, there are situations that are not conducive to lots of physical activity such as illness or pregnancy. If your dog is ill, a few days' rest will probably do him more good than a forced walk. Pregnant females should never be pushed into strenuous activity and should be allowed to rest for a couple of hours after meals.

So what if you aren't able to go for long walks? Don't worry. Your dog will benefit (and so will you) from shorter, more frequent walks and also from playing fetch, tugging on a rope toy and even playing (or trying to destroy) a special stuffed toy that you give him. Just remember that if you give your dog chew toys like rawhide strips or pig ears which can occupy him physically and mentally for long periods of time, too many may create unwanted weight problems. Another thing you can do is find out where the dog parks are in your area because your dog will truly benefit from running and exploring without being hampered by a leash and you'll probably find areas where you can sit and watch him. If you have neighbors with dogs that are approximately the same size, you can set up play dates so they can run, wrestle and simply socialize.

Keep in mind that their hearts, muscles and circulatory systems need strengthening just like our own and because of this, activity is the key. However, your best friend would much rather drop in his tracks than let you down so make sure he's not over-heating (carry some water for him if you go out on very hot days) and that he's not overly tired. And, of course, if you are planning to make a big change in your dog's exercise regimen, please make sure to check with your veterinarian first.

Cute and Quirky Just Like a Rattie!

Canine Urinary Infections and Symptoms

A helpful article for any and all dog owners by Maria Hausle

When bacteria get into the urethra or the bladder, a urinary tract infection, or UTI, can develop. The urethra is the tube that transports the urine from the bladder to the outside of the body where it is expelled. A urinary infection can be very uncomfortable and may make urinating very painful. Canine urinary infections and symptoms are rather easy to spot, and if it is caught in the early stages a veterinarian can run a simple test to make sure it is a UTI. If the test is positive, the vet can treat the urinary infection as long as it is in the early stages. However, if a urinary infection is left untreated for too long, it can be life threatening to the dog.

What Are The Symptoms Of Canine Urinary Infections?

When you look for canine urinary infections and symptoms, there are a few specific things that you should note:

Frequent urination (usually in strange or unusual places)Straining or difficult urination (dog may whine or yelp while trying to urinate)Frequent urination without passing much urine * Blood in the urine * Cloudy urineConstantly licking genitalsUrine that is very foul smellingA seeming inability to control urinationThe lower abdomen is tender (near the area of the bladder)FeverLethargy or not as playful

What Are The Treatments For Canine Urinary Infections?

Depending on the actual cause of the infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the dog's urinary infection. This method can work rather quickly to alleviate the dog's symptoms and give it some comfort. The downside to this is that antibiotics can cause an overall weakening of the entire immune system and this can lead to other problems as it opens the dog up for additional illnesses. This is particularly true if the dog has recurring infections where antibiotics are prescribed on a regular basis. There are also some herbal and homeopathic treatments that are on the market and are intended to treat the symptoms as well as the causes of canine urinary infections.

How Can Canine Urinary Infections Be Prevented?

Do not allow your dog to become dehydrated and make sure that he or she always has access to clean, fresh water. Keep the water bowl clean and keep the water clean. Give your dog a place to urinate whenever he or she needs to go. "Holding it" for too long can lead to urinary infections and bladder problems, just as in humans. You can also make sure that your dog has a balanced diet that has plenty of raw and unprocessed foods. Keep your dog away from toxins and chemicals that may cause problems, even second hand cigarette smoke can be injurious. Keep your dog's diet balanced and make sure that he or she gets plenty of exercise every day (find excellent suggestions in this area and combat another serious problem at Dog Weight Problems). Finally, reduce the stress that may occur in your pet's environment. Give him or her a place to relax and unwind. Once you are able to recognize canine urinary infections and symptoms, you can effectively treat it and keep your dog healthy and happy.

Great Gift Spotlight And My Personal Review - The Perfect Gift For Everyone!

Let's face it, picking out the perfect gift is never easy...until now. The release of the 2013 Rat Terrier Calendar is scheduled for July 23, 2012 and the calendar has 16 months of pure Rattie pleasure which means it can be used from September 2012 to December 2013. Everyone needs a calendar and having these cute little rascals looking back at you all year long is a pleasure that few will be able to resist. I especially love the coy little April pose and the doggies in a wooden crate for September but they're all winners in my book. Get your Christmas shopping done early this year and give everyone on your list something useful and precious.

The Sonny Saga Continues

Our Visit to the Vet - Part 2

The day arrived and since the office was only about 7 minutes away from my house, I decided, quite foolishly as it turned out, that I should leave around 2:45 pm. I, of course, hadn't counted on Sonny refusing to go. With the car door opened, I let Sonny do his business to avoid any accidents and then led him, naively, to the door expecting him to jump up and into the car happily and elegantly. Instead, he looked at me as though I'd sprouted antlers, cocked his head to the left and promptly sat down on the driveway. Reminded of old cartoons involving stubborn mules, I tugged slightly on his leash and pointed inside the car. He, in turn, decided he'd rather visit Ziggy, his dog-friend from next door. Pulling him back to the car, I tried gesturing frantically in the direction of the car door with little examples of how he should jump up and into the car. Obviously amused by my antics, he decided to sit and watch me. Realizing that I would have to pick him up and that he weighed a ton, I started reaching for him losing my sunglasses, his vaccination papers, the lovely little bag of doggie-do that I was asked to bring and my purse when he bolted away from me. The next few minutes could have been a scene from a Harold Lloyd film with me bending to pick him up, dropping something and Sonny slipping out of my grasp, over and over again. I finally threw everything inside the car and grabbed him. It took all my strength to get him in the car and attach his harness to the seatbelt but I did it.

Of course, by this time, I looked like I'd fallen into a well and clawed my way out. I was drenched due to the fact that temperatures have been hovering around the 90 degree mark and, truthfully, I'm at that time of my life when outside temperatures don't really factor into how hot I feel. I got in the car and tried to drown out the whining and whelping with soothing sounds of encouragement. Afraid that he might decide to give me back his breakfast at an inopportune time, I decided to drive slowly and take the curves with great care. The inside of the car could have roasted a turkey in record time so I put the air on full blast. The sound didn't appease Sonny in the least so I turned on the radio (I like to think he appreciates the Oldies) and started singing "Time in a Bottle" by Jim Croce to him which confused him enough to stop his complaints.

At long last, we arrived at the pet clinic and Sonny dove out of the car like the best diver in Acapulco. Bustling through the door disheveled, sweaty and with a hyperactive dog, I looked at my watch and was horrified to see that it was 3:42 pm. I couldn't stop myself from fantasizing about how much I'd enjoy strangling the nice lady at the counter if she told me I'd lost my appointment. In fact, I'm quite sure that my eye started twitching like Inspector Dreyfus in the Pink Panther movies. But, instead, I was asked to wait and fill out their forms. Now how does one fill out forms when you're trying to juggle a purse, vaccination papers, dog poop, oh yes and a dog that has now completely lost his mind? Couldn't they empty the place out for us? Dogs of all breeds, cats and even two parrots were apparently taunting Sonny into becoming a lunatic. A staff member even came out and gave Sonny a treat, to try to calm him down, which he promptly spit out (first time in history that this dog has spit anything out). I finally handed in my illegible forms and asked about the dog obedience training that one neighbor had mentioned. As it happened, the trainer was walking towards me and when she was introduced to us, I swear I saw a flicker of horror in her eyes. She started telling me about the classes and out of the corner of my eye I could see the veterinary assistant waiting to take us into the examination room. So now, apart from juggling the purse, the papers, the poop and the dog, I was now juggling the trainer and the assistant too. I'm not really sure what the trainer told me but I've got a card and it says I'm supposed to call her so I suppose I will.

Once in the examination room, things went a little smoother as I was able to dump my paraphernalia and hand Sonny over to professionals. He screamed so loud when he got his shots, though, that the vet actually jumped a bit but that calmed him down and he came over for a reassuring hug. He's in good health, which I knew but then we went to get him weighed. Last year, he weighed in at 29 lbs. which was 7 lbs. overweight. I've been cutting down on his treats, giving him lean or low calorie dog food and trying to take him on more walks so I was confident he'd lost a pound or two. When I looked at the scale and saw that he weighed 35 lbs. I almost burst out crying. I know the serious effects that dog weight problems can have on the health of a dog. My guilt was now complete. Even if she had pointed a finger at me and said, "Bad mistress, bad, bad mistress", she could not have made me feel worse.

Although the assistant had mentioned a mild sedative for Sonny for the long car drive (some of which I could have used at that time), the vet told me that all I should give him was Dramamine which I just happened to have in my purse. I shouldn't give him more than 50 grams at one time but he can have up to 150 grams in one day. The only thing is the ones in my purse are the non-drowsy formula so I'll be picking up the "can't stay awake no matter how I try" version for him this week.

The drive home was much less eventful. Sonny probably sensed my contrition and decided not to make me feel worse. We drove home listening to the Oldies (we actually heard Me & You and a Dog Named Boo) and when I opened the front door to the house, I think he would have kissed Boris if Boris had let him. He's happy now because he thinks the worst is past; little does he know there's a long, long drive ahead of him and another on the way back. I know he'll survive it; I'm just not so sure I will.

Choose The Best Dog Movie

Okay, we all have our guilty pleasures and dog movies or movies with dogs are definitely up there. So, 'fess up and pick your favourite or add it to the list.

Rat Terriers Really Do Make Great Pets

Rat Terrier Dogs

By Chris Sukow

The Rat Terrier dog is an energetic spunky dog which makes it a great watchdog and family companion. Another characteristic is that Rat Terrier dogs get along well with other pets too.

The Rat Terrier dog was named by President Teddy Roosevelt. They were developed in Great Britain from a cross between Smooth Fox Terriers and the Manchester Terriers of the 1800's. They were brought to America around 1900, and they quickly spread in popularity. In America, breeders crossed this breed again with the Smooth Fox Terrier, the Beagle to retain hunting instincts. It was also crossed with Whippets for their speed, agility, and the blue and brindle color coats.

Rat Terrier dogs are available in many colors. The most common colors are red and white, tri-spotted, solid red, and black and tan. They have a very short hair coat which is easy to groom and this breed does not tend to shed a lot. Brushing does not need to be done on a regular basis, a couple of times a month should do. Baths are also not required too frequently, a couple of times a year should suffice.

The Rat Terrier dog is a small dog standing between 14 and 24 inches and weighing 12 to 35 pounds. Although small this dog does display the toughness of most other Terrier breeds. Untrained they can be destructive and aggressive, but with proper socializing as a young dog, you can easily have a great companion.

Rat Terrier dogs can be a good choice if you live in a small house or apartment. But be sure to give them enough stimulation otherwise they can develop destructive habits if not given the proper outlet for their aggression.

Rat Terrier dogs make great companions and are an excellent choice if you are looking for a dog. With their energy levels and spunkiness they are a welcome addition to any family.

Different Rat Terrier Products - The Little Things That Make Me Happy

These are every-day things that make me smile every single time I use them.

Rat Terrier Pals

No HTML is allowed in comments, but URLs will be hyperlinked. Comments are not for promoting your articles or other sites.

sending

Roger

5 months ago

Scooter weighs in at 11.5lbs

( needs to shed a lb or so).

He will be 10 years old in June this year. He lives up to the name Rat Terrier as there are literally hunreds of dead rats to his name.

In fact he is a bit puzzled over the lack of pack rats in the wood pile.

He's really that good.

I refer him as a 'velcro dog', he must be touching me, laying on me, racing me to the car or licking me. At the moment he's napping next to me.

I love the little guy more than you could ever know.

Laurie

8 months ago

Rat terriers rule my little girl Molly is 15 years old and still spunky she is more human like than some people I love her as much as my kids and will need serious grief therapy when I lose her she is my 3rd child and truly the best dog have had since she was 6 weeks old

GaelicQueen

6 years ago

Great articles. We had our rat terrier for 12.5 years. She had gotten ill after eating some Lantana plant. Her health declined within 2 months, though we had her to vet for treatments. She went blind and senile. She couldn't recover from the damage. She died in my arms 7/19 as the vet administered drug to take her over the Rainbow Bridge. Eventually we will adopt another rescued Rat Terrier and once again be in the presence of an earthbound angel.

WindyWintersHubs

6 years agofrom Vancouver Island, BC

Awesome info on Rat Terriers. Little dogs and Rat Terriers are so cute. I have been considering a small dog and I'm not quite sure what breed I may get. I do have two Boston Terrier grand pups that were quite a handful when they were little. Now that they are going on 5 and 6 they are easier to look after.

Loretta

7 years agofrom United States

My two rat terriers said you need some angle dust on this lens, and I certainly agree ;-)

Ayngel Overson

8 years agofrom Crestone, Co

I knew I liked you as soon as you said... "I've never truly understood people who don't enjoy the company of animals."

Those who treat their animals poorly go into a warning file for me. Not abuse mind you, but what is the point of having a dog if you are going to throw it in a pen or out on a chain and never really interact with it?

I can't help but be suspicious of people who don't seem to have real relationships with their pets.

You obviously have a REAL relationship and I am happy for you. I don't know what I would do without my own little Roo dog, only part Rattie but she is my little sweetie and we are together always. Your story is beautiful and Roo has asked me to lensroll it to her lens, Ugly dogs need love too!

anonymous

8 years ago

Awesome, We have one Rat Terrier his name is Tobey and he definitely rules the house. I recently wrote a blog entitled Rat Terrier Fans where everyone can comment about their Ratty!

anonymous

9 years ago

I have two rat terriers... are you ready for this? They are named Tom and Jerry! We rescued them from the local "Rescue the Animals" here in town. I looked at Tom first, and then when I found out their names and was introduced to Jerry, I just knew I couldn't separate them. They are a joy to have and I LOVE seeing this website where I can learn so much more about the breed. Would this be a good breed for the agility activities?

anonymous

9 years ago

Hi.

My little delightful terrier Sparky is almost 13 years old... and prettier than yours! Doing quite well at the farm in rural GA, controlling four other dogs (and us)... including a Bull Mastiff . She spends 4 to 5 hours barking at any possible rodeant hole within site every day religiously. Withing the last 7 months she has developed severe allergies to everything (flees, red clay, food, etc). Treatment is under control, but very costly at $60/mo.

Has anyone else had problems with older rat terriers &amp; allergies. I am afraid this could be a sign for a worse decease.

Much appreciated.

Concerned Mommy

cannedguds lm

9 years ago

To answer your question, I think that the dog's life span depends on how you really take good care of him, right? I don't have a Rat Terrier but I do have a dog who is now more than 12 years old and he's still strong. He's a German Shepherd and I love him a lot and his name's Jack. I love Jack &amp; I'm so proud of him that I even put some of his photos on my personal checks ! Right now, I'm expecting him to live longer and he doesn't mind! He's as stronger as ever!

AGreenVoice

10 years ago

Hi there! I have two great Rats, Buttons and Lucy. Buttons was adopted from the local shelter. My parents also have a rat they adopted from the shelter, Jake. We love them so much...Rats are the only way to go!

Adrie

10 years ago

Hello,

I like your lens, some good info.

Did you know that people with a dog phobia can use self help hypnosis to overcome fear of dogs?

Feel free to visit my Lens: Dog Phobia

You can also visit my site: e-books about dogs .

Adrie Rackers

Gatsby LM

10 years ago

This lens is great! 5* Solve Dog Behavior Problems

DogWhisperWoman1

10 years ago

All I have to say to you is 5* Best Dog For Child

June Parker

11 years agofrom New York

Wow! You've really added a lot since I last visited. 5 stars for you and lens roll and fav!

Dogs Eating Chocolate

Top 10 Dog Food

Barkely

11 years ago

You have some cute photos here. We love all dogs at our house!

Karendelac

11 years ago

Great lens. I never knew how long a dog spand is.

Thanks for putting together such a great lens!

Keep up the great work! All the Best, Karen at Karen's Kinkade Art Store

datingtips93

11 years ago

Had no idea such long lives were so common in dogs!

Isalini

11 years ago

Great lens, Maria! I've read that dogs can actually live into their 20's! Visit Basenjidogs

DrDog

11 years ago

Hi Maria, I've never known much about rat terriers--thanks for the lens!Gayle, author of How to Train Your Dog to Stop Barking.

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